Battles are now being waged in state legislatures across the country regarding an Article V convention. Supporters of calling for such a convention are asking these legislatures to risk reliving 1787 by rewriting the Constitution. Both supporters and opponents of an Article V convention agree that the federal government is out of control, but disagree on how to rein it in.

State Legislatures Asked to Risk Harming the Constitution Through Article V Convention

APPLETON, WIS. — FEBRUARY 24, 2015 — Battles are now being waged in state legislatures across the country regarding an Article V convention. Supporters of calling for such a convention are asking these legislatures to risk reliving 1787 by rewriting the Constitution. Both supporters and opponents of an Article V convention agree that the federal government is out of control, but disagree on how to rein it in.

The John Birch Society (JBS), staunch supporters of limited government under the Constitution, leads the opposition to calling for an Article V convention. Since the mid-1980s, JBS has directed members to educate legislators on the risks of calling for a convention, based on the precedent of the first Constitutional Convention in 1787. These risks include the potential for the replacement of ratification procedures and a rewriting of the Constitution. In essence, the risk is a runaway convention that cannot be controlled. JBS has no opposition to amending the Constitution through Congress and referring proposed amendments to the states for ratification, like the 27 amendments already added to the Constitution.

If a convention were called, powerful special interests would seek to revise the Constitution in their favor. If the convention would rewrite the ratification rules, sufficient safeguards might not be in place to prevent the rewriting of such treasured portions of the Constitution as the Bill of Rights.

Amending the Constitution denotes that there is a deficiency in the guiding document. JBS asserts that if the Constitution were being followed as intended, there would be no need for such amendments as term limits, balanced budget, etc. These proposed amendments do not attack the root of the problem, merely the symptoms. If Congress is not following the Constitution now, then Congress cannot be counted on to follow any new amendments.

Ultimately, JBS sees the Article V movement as a colossal waste of time, energy, and precious resources that will only disappoint those who are working so hard to rein in the federal government. Only the long-term plan of obeying the Constitution (defunding and getting rid of all federal agencies and programs not authorized in the Constitution, as well as states being the final check by disregarding unconstitutional measures) will rein in the tyranny that has built up over the last 100-plus years.

Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Appleton, Wis., The John Birch Society (JBS.org) is dedicated to restoring and preserving freedom under the U.S. Constitution. Members come from all walks of life and are active throughout the 50 states on local, state, and national issues. United by a strong belief in personal freedom and limited government, members have a strong sense of duty, and their educational efforts have played a continuous and pivotal role in exposing legislation and policies that threaten the independence of America and the freedom of citizens.

New book from JBS CEO details agenda behind free trade, issues call to action"International Merger by Foreign Entanglements" now available

APPLETON, WIS. — APRIL 1, 2014 — As the Obama administration negotiates free trade agreements, The John Birch Society (JBS) has published a book exposing the agenda behind free trade agreements. "International Merger by Foreign Entanglements" by JBS CEO Arthur R. Thompson details historic events that helped shape the European Union through trade agreements and how the same could happen to the U.S.

Thompson demonstrates how today's free trade agreements are merely vehicles to bring about economic and political integration of blocs of nations. As he points out, the agreements encompass much more than trade revealing that the agreements are more about supranational control.

Founders George Washington and Thomas Jefferson recommended America avoid foreign entanglements. Current free trade agreements are themselves permanent foreign entanglements likely to lead the U.S. into a governance body similar to the European Union. Thompson provides historical parallels to prove this.

Thompson writes the federal government "start[s] out looking as though they will solve domestic economic problems, yet they produce more problems. The solution then offered is more government or, currently, more international agreements."

"This cycle will lead to a loss of freedom for the people unless the people realize that the real solution is to go back to what was enjoyed prior to the trade agreements."

The book is a call to action for concerned Americans who value American made products, American jobs, and American independence. To view a brief excerpt, visit the InsideJBS blog.

Mr. Thompson is available for interviews. Digital and print copies for review are also available. He is currently speaking to audiences across the country with his presentation, "What is the Real Price of Free Trade?"

"International Merger by Foreign Entanglements" (154 pages, b&w, 8-page color insert, ISBN 978-1-881919-12-4, $9.95) is published by The John Birch Society and available at ShopJBS.org.

Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Appleton, Wis., The John Birch Society (JBS.org) is dedicated to restoring and preserving freedom under the U.S. Constitution. Members come from all walks of life and are active throughout the 50 states on local, state and national issues. United by a strong belief in personal freedom and limited government, members have a strong sense of duty, and their educational efforts have played a continuous and pivotal role in exposing legislation and policies that threaten the independence of America and the freedom of citizens.

An interesting phenomenon has occurred in the debate over educational standards: those interested in taking marching orders from the federal government and adopting standards sight unseen have been put on the defensive after being challenged by opponents.

Common Core Advocates Placed on Defensive, Focus on Deflection Tactics, Not TestimonyWisconsin activists organized to stop Common Core educate legislators at public hearings

APPLETON, WI — November 1, 2013 — An interesting phenomenon has occurred in the debate over educational standards: those interested in taking marching orders from the federal government and adopting standards sight unseen have been put on the defensive after being challenged by opponents.

This is the case in Wisconsin. Common Core supporting legislators, not used to the opposition, are now resorting to Alinsky-style tactics of deflecting the criticism and downplaying expert witness testimony by focusing on how these experts arrived at the hearings instead of the substance of their testimony.

One Democratic legislator turned the hearings into a publicity event after denouncing the first bipartisan hearing in Madison, from which she left early. She resigned from the committee but only after skipping the other three hearings. Unfortunately, her Facebook postings demonstrate she isn't interested in bipartisan discussions, as elected politicians need to be.

According to its website, the state of Wisconsin adopted Common Core standards in 2010 for Math and English. Stop Common Core in Wisconsin reports that the standards were adopted in exchange for a waiver for No Child Left Behind mandates and $22.7 million in Race to the Top Funds.

On WashingtonPost.com, Valerie Strauss reprinted an article by Marion Brady ("veteran teacher, administrator, curriculum designer and author") that states Common Core standards were written and introduced "with insufficient public dialogue or feedback from experienced educators, no research, no pilot or experimental programs — no evidence at all that a floor-length list created by unnamed people attempting to standardize what's taught is a good idea."

Common Core State Standards were not driven by states, but from the National Governors Association for Best Practices, Student Achievement Partners, Achieve, and the Council of Chief State School Officers, driven by financing from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to the tune of $147.7 million, according to the Huffington Post.

The article also cites a second list of organizations that received funding from the organization to influence state and local decisions ($8.1 million), not including the collective $9.4 million paid to the American Federation of Teachers and the National Education Association (national teacher unions). The author cites a third list of "state education departments and local school districts that have received grants to implement" the standards ($37.3 million). A fourth list is cited of "universities that received Gates' funding to promote" the standards ($17.6 million). And yet a fifth list is cited listing foundations and institutes paid to promote the standards ($10,571,796), including $1,961,116 to the "conservative" Thomas B. Fordham Institute that some claim is an indication of conservative buy-in for Common Core standards. A sixth and final list contains businesses and nonprofits also paid to promote the standards ($173.5 million).

After Common Core began to be exposed by concerned parents and activists, pressure was put onto lawmakers to call public hearings on Common Core, so the budget was passed with the request that "there be a comprehensive evaluation of Common Core Standards (CCS) in" Wisconsin, according to an open letter to Wisconsin State Education Committee Chair Senator Lutheran Olsen and Rep. Joan Ballweg. This letter was sent by 34 state legislators who were asking Sen. Olsen when might the hearings be held because of an approaching Nov. 1, 2013 deadline. Senator Olsen told in a recorded interview that he supported the hearings but not at that time.

According to Wisconsin Reporter, "The Joint Finance Committee inserted the budget motion, for which Olsen voted, calling for a Legislative Fiscal Bureau analysis of the costs of implementing or halting Common Core, a Department of Public Instruction evaluation of Common Core, three DPI public hearings on the standards and a Legislative Council study with more public hearings."

In an interview with Wisconsin Eye, Olsen spoke in favor of Common Core standards in Wisconsin when asked if he supported them, "Yes I do, wholeheartedly." Assembly Education Chair Steve Kestell echoed Olsen's support in that interview.

The MacIver News Service reported on September 25, after Gov. Walker said that Wisconsin can do better than Common Core that "The Senate and Assembly have announced the formation of two Select Committees on Common Core to look into the matter more deeply. Representative Jeremy Thiesfeldt (R-Fond du Lac) will head the Assembly committee, while Senator Paul Farrow (R-Pewaukee) will be the chair of the Senate side. The Senate committee will have five members, including Senator Leah Vukmir (R-Wauwatosa), Senator Alberta Darling (R-River Hills), and two Democrats to be named at a later date by Senator Chris Larson."

Various tea party groups contend that Sen. Olsen had an ethical conflict of interest regarding his wife, Joan Wade, Agency Administrator for Cooperative Educational Service Agency (CESA), which has 12 regions "created by the Wisconsin Legislature ... designed to serve educational needs in all areas of Wisconsin by serving as a link both between school districts and between school districts and the state. Cooperative educational service agencies may provide leadership, coordination and education services to school districts, University of Wisconsin System institutions and technical colleges. Cooperative educational service agencies may facilitate communication and cooperation among all public and private schools, agencies and organizations that provide services to pupils." According to a fact sheet from CESA, CESAs are a resource to help with rolling out Common Core State Standards.

The hearings were then scheduled and chaired by Rep. Jeremy Thiesfeldt, much to the satisfaction of concerned parents, activists and conservative organizations across Wisconsin.

As a leader in the delivery of classical education, American Opinion Foundation (AOF) researched Common Core and presented its findings to concerned audiences all across the country, including many in Wisconsin. Those in Wisconsin expressed a desire to ensure that expert testimony be heard from those who were closely involved in planning, validating or using Common Core. At one local meeting of the Fox Valley Conservative Forum, an actual hat was passed around when someone suggested they collect donations to help pay for travel expenses. AOF was asked to serve as a manager of these funds and in that capacity, kept accurate records of donations. In identifying the experts, estimated travel expenses (air travel, hotel, and meals) came to about $6,000. Wisconsin activists and concerned citizens of Wisconsin chipped in small amounts until eventually reaching about $5,500, which is still short of the goal of paying for the travel expenses for five experts. No honorariums, speaking fees, or additional expenses were paid.

Among those who chipped in were concerned activists Ruth Elmer and Edward Perkins, who sent a written statement to the legislature and Wisconsin press adding further credibility to the fundraising efforts described above. Part of that letter is posted here:

In response to all of the wrongful attempts to slander and paint as sinister Alan Scholl, the AOF, and, by association, the John Birch Society (JBS), we have stepped forward to make known the truth—that a handful of concerned Wisconsin citizens, parents and taxpayers simply wanted to ensure that the other side of the Common Core story was explored properly. We felt it was particularly important to step forward in light of Rep. Christine Sinicki's abrupt resignation from the Assembly Select Committee and her public[ly] ... false claims that, "this committee and its activities are occurring at the behest of interested parties outside of this Legislature, and even the state."

It's regrettable that Rep. Sinicki didn't listen to what we and others have continually stated, both in Fond du Lac and again at the Wausau meeting—that people like ourselves raised these funds out of our personal pockets, which it is our right as citizens to do. Unlike the bountifully endowed Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the contributors to our incredibly modest fund in many cases had to sacrifice to do so. How did this small amount of citizen-generated money become worthy of an "outsider" designation? How did it become such a threat...unless it has become imperative for the pro-CCSS camp to shift discussion away from the facts of the standards themselves?

So, instead of focusing on the standards and the controversy surrounding its questionable methods and data collection, what does the state media focus on? They focus on where the money came from to bring in the experts. Very little was mentioned regarding pro-Common Core attendees who were paid by taxpayer dollars. Executive Director of American Opinion Foundation Alan Scholl explained in an interview with JBS-affiliate The New American, "'On the other side of the debate, taxpayers footed the bill for pro-Common Core witnesses,' he continued. 'By contrast, literally many dozens of Department of Public Instruction employees took full days at each of the events, with pay, and came long distances,' Scholl noted. 'Many were ranking bureaucrats, likely with hefty salaries. I would estimate over 100 in all. I haven’t done the math, but their salaries, along with substitute teachers on school days, travel and all are a huge sum.'"

According to American Opinion Foundation, these five experts included Dr. Sandra Stotsky, a leading authority on English Language Arts standards and member of the Common Core validation committee who refused to sign-off on the ELA standards; Dr. James Milgram, a leading authority on Math standards from Stanford University and member of the Common Core validation committee who refused to sign-off on the Math standard; Dr. Gary Thompson of the Early Life Child Psychology and Education Center, a registered Democrat who set out to prove anti-Common Core activists wrong, but couldn't; Ze'ev Wurman, a former U.S. Department of Education official in the George W. Bush administration; and Ted Rebarber, the CEO and founder of AccountabilityWorks.

As hearings were held (Madison, Fond du Lac, Eau Claire, and Wausau, in that order), it became apparent to those in attendance as well as the Chair which lawmakers were there to listen and which were there to offer their snide and insulting remarks.

Rep. Thiesfeldt and Sen. Paul Farrow released a statement announcing that they were pleased with the hearings. They now will draft recommendations to the state legislature.

In Rep. Sinicki's resignation letter, she writes at the end of the first paragraph, "... I believe it is time for me to end an association with what is sadly a deeply biased hearing process, not an objective policy review."

Pot meet kettle. The unconstitutional process of formulating Common Core standards and shoving them onto the states with the temptation of federal funds is not what we consider a neutral hearing process nor policy review. Our efforts and ultimate success hinges on concerned citizens stepping forward and getting involved in the legislative process. We believe this pushback Common Core advocates are receiving is healthy in shaping legislation bolstering local academic standards as opposed to the national Common Core standards which were generated, written, and funded by unaccountable institutes, foundations, unions, trade associations and federal bureaucrats.

Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin, The John Birch Society is dedicated to restoring and preserving freedom under the U.S. Constitution. Members come from all walks of life and are active throughout the 50 states on local, regional and national issues. United by a strong belief in personal freedom and limited government, members have a strong sense of duty, and their educational efforts have played a continuous and pivotal role in exposing legislation and policies that threaten the independence of America and the freedom of citizens. Visit JBS.org for more information.

In an audacious display, the October 13, 2013, Dallas Morning News published a left-wing hit-piece on The John Birch Society (JBS) regarding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The article is more concerned about the “volatile atmosphere” than with the actual shooter, his motive, and the president’s death.

APPLETON, WIS. — October 14, 2013 — In an audacious display, the October 13, 2013, Dallas Morning News published a left-wing hit-piece on The John Birch Society (JBS) regarding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The article is more concerned about the “volatile atmosphere” than with the actual shooter, his motive, and the president’s death.

The facts are clear: Lee Harvey Oswald, a self-proclaimed Marxist who had defected to the Soviet Union and returned, then unsuccessfully tried to move to Cuba, and had attempted to kill an out-spoken member of The John Birch Society in April 1963. His wife, Marina Oswald, testified that her husband believed this member to be a leader of a “fascist organization.”

Three weeks before the assassination of the president, writer and JBS member Taylor Caldwell had a letter to the editor published in The Wanderer, in which she noted the hatred against the president coming from the left and pointed out the increasing need for the personal protection for the president. This letter was also republished in the January 1964 issue of our American Opinion magazine.

Her letter stated: "The enemies of freedom and God are everywhere in every country of the West. It is possible that Mr. Kennedy is in personal jeopardy from them, a matter which is not being mentioned in the newspapers. Indeed, it is very probable. Presidents have been murdered before in our history, and in less dreadful times. Among our enemies there are many madmen. I receive quite a number of pro-Communist and "liberal" periodicals, and some are quite inflammatory against Mr. Kennedy. The tone of the 'liberal' periodicals--some of our big monthly magazines for instance--are wrathful against our President. It seems that they had expected him to overthrow the Constitution and set-up a sort of crypto-Communist dictatorship. (They call it 'progress.') He has disappointed them, and there is no canard too mean for them to print and no sneer too ugly for some of their pages. His parents, his wife, his children, his brothers and sisters, are held to ridicule in a lot of the 'liberal' and pro-Communist press. This may come as a surprise to many of my Conservative brothers and sisters."

On November 22, Oswald shoots and kills the president. Yet, the Dallas Morning News article would have you believe a “volatile atmosphere” generated by “right-wing extremism” contributed to the death of the president. Are we to think that the Marxist Oswald surrounded himself with conservatives who led him to commit murder?

This Dallas Morning News article is one of many in a trend the mainstream media has generated to use political correctness as a tool to discredit the discussion and the practice of limited government under the Constitution. For if the Constitution was obeyed, estimates show that the federal government would be about 20 percent its current size and cost. And for those politicians, lobbyists and crony capitalists who see the Constitution as a hurdle to be overcome or as an excuse to strengthen its grip on liberty, the idea and practice of constitutionally limiting the government is very dangerous and debilitating to their causes.

The Dallas Morning News is merely playing its part in the smear of conservatives concerned about the country’s future. It’s a trend that will likely continue as long as big government advocates are losing the war they began on American liberty. We urge concerned Americans to read the Constitution and seek the solutions it contains to many of America’s ills. Then get organized and active to restore the liberties that have been taken away from us by an out-of-control federal government.

Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin, The John Birch Society is dedicated to restoring and preserving freedom under the U.S. Constitution. Members come from all walks of life and are active throughout the 50 states on local, regional and national issues. United by a strong belief in personal freedom and limited government, members have a strong sense of duty, and their educational efforts have played a continuous and pivotal role in exposing legislation and policies that threaten the independence of our country and the freedom of American citizens. Visit JBS.org for more information.

XXX

In an audacious display, the October 13, 2013, Dallas Morning News published a left-wing hit-piece on The John Birch Society (JBS) regarding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.The article is more concerned about the “volatile atmosphere” than with the actual shooter, his motive, and the president’s death.

The facts are clear: Lee Harvey Oswald, a self-proclaimed Marxist who had defected to the Soviet Union and returned, then unsuccessfully tried to move to Cuba, and had attempted to kill an out-spoken member of The John Birch Society in April 1963. His wife, Marina Oswald, testified that her husband believed this member to be a leader of a “fascist organization.”

Three weeks before the assassination of the president, writer and JBS member Taylor Caldwell had a letter to the editor published in The Wanderer, in which she noted the hatred against the president coming from the left and pointed out the increasing need for the personal protection for the president. This letter was also republished in the January 1964 issue of our American Opinion magazine.

Attending a Council Dinner is always invigorating. Staff, members, and guests spend time networking, talking about new opportunities, what works, and what doesn't. The Council Dinner held in Bozeman, MT, over the weekend was no exception. This was the first time JBS held the dinner in Montana and the outpouring of support couldn’t have been better.

Attending a Council Dinner is always invigorating. Staff, members, and guests spend time networking, talking about new opportunities, what works, and what doesn't. The Council Dinner held in Bozeman, MT, over the weekend was no exception. This was the first time JBS held the dinner in Montana and the outpouring of support couldn’t have been better. In addition to the beautiful geography and great food, attendees were treated to a powerful line-up of effective speakers during the late morning and afternoon portion of Saturday.

Chapter leaders and other distinguished volunteers received a pep talk and advice from CEO Art Thompson and National Director of Field Activities Jim Fitzgerald the evening before, so they were fired up and ready to learn. President John McManus started us off with discussing some of the history of the United Nations and how it erodes national sovereignty, works against the U.S. Constitution, and how the UN continues to be accepted wholeheartedly by elected officials.

John offered insight into the UN’s Agenda 21, of which our own Bill Jasper had broken the story of this initiative in the 1990s with his reporting from the UN conference in Rio De Janeiro. John showed how Agenda 21 is reaching down into local communities and usurping the sovereignty of our local governments in the name of sustainability. He talked about the successful efforts of communities in Virginia and Oklahoma to educate local officials of these unconstitutional acts and how the proposed legislation was defeated. Given Agenda 21, JBS is stepping up its efforts to Get US Out! of the UN, one of its longest-standing campaigns. Look for new tools this fall to battle Agenda 21 and ways to raise the level of awareness.

Pastor Dan Fisher of Yukon, Oklahoma delivered an energetic “Silencing Christianity in America” that described how Christians had become politically incorrect and, in some instances, declared a potential terrorist threat. He gave example after example of Christians being persecuted in America. He described how some are fighting back by showing that the First Amendment has been so twisted to exclude God from government, and along with that, morality of the populace. He discussed the need for pastors to once again lead their flocks into the heat of battle to help right this wrong.

He elaborated more on this in a special session held that afternoon that saw him discuss the efforts of the Black-Robed Regiment during the War of Independence and how pastors back then led the charge to help battle the British and how involved they got in politics. Sound a bit different from today? Pastor Fisher and other patriotic pastors have decided to bring back the regiment by incorporating more of a liberty message in with their sermons, including discussing politics. They have recently sent the IRS a video and transcript of their political sermons to challenge the IRS and the constitutionality of the Johnson Amendment, which loosely states that churches cannot be involved in politics and maintain their not-for-profit status. Pastor Fisher has received confirmation back from the IRS that the agency is now beginning to keep a file on the church. But this isn’t slowing him or others down. It only serves to push them harder in their resolve.

Robert Brown brought forth a fresh idea that demonstrates how the power of a few individuals can multiply into a real opposing force that can make a world of difference in a Congressional district. The “Power of 500” demonstrated this well as one person can influence 10 households, who in turn influence a factor of 2 or 4, multiplying the influence eventually into thousands and greater.

By having 500 active members in a congressional district, big changes can occur in the electoral make-up of that district and result in elected officials who adhere to the Constitution, regardless of party.

The final afternoon speaker was Montana State Representative Derek Skees, who presented “The Principles of ’98.” His explanation of lesser magistrates to great magistrates set-up a constitutional case for nullification. He related his freshman experiences in the state legislature in which he had crafted numerous bills to nullify federal legislation as well as author a number of government-reducing bills. His high energy and commitment to his oath of office were very refreshing.

That evening at the Council Dinner, we heard from Ray Clark, JBS Council Member and owner of Clark’s Nutrition, about his efforts to organize his fellow industry partners and battle the Food and Drug Administration. His story of organizing against the opposition and fighting incredible odds to victory was encouraging. He has plenty of insight into dealing with an overbearing, unconstitutional, and free-enterprise-killing government agency. His personal stories brought hope to fellow Birchers battling ObamaCare and other measures.

Elijah Abraham, founder of Center for National Security, detailed the battle that Islam is waging against Christians. He showed how deeply Sharia Law had taken hold in the UK and how it is beginning to work its way into American courts. Growing up in Baghdad, he has first-hand knowledge of this and helps to convert Muslims to Christians from his ministry in Texas. He certainly showed evidence of Sharia-creep. His description of the problem was very eye-opening.

CEO Art Thompson ended the evening with his presentation on how Birchers have made a difference, how they continue to make a difference, and how the future victory will be made even sweeter for future generations.

The next Council Dinner is scheduled for October in Albany, NY, with Jerome Corsi as one of the main speakers. Watch JBS.org for further announcements.

]]>bhahn@jbs.org (Bill Hahn)CommentaryMon, 27 Jun 2011 15:32:04 -0500The John Birch Society President to Participate in “We the People Convention”http://www.jbs.org/press-room/the-john-birch-society-president-to-participate-in-we-the-people-convention
http://www.jbs.org/press-room/the-john-birch-society-president-to-participate-in-we-the-people-convention

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact Bill Hahn, Public Relations Manager,The John Birch Society, 920-749-3780, bhahn@jbs.org In conjunction with Lisa Bast, We the People Convention

The John Birch Society President to Participate in “We the People Convention”John McManus to Take Part in Panel Discussion on Federal Reserve

APPLETON, WIS. – May 12, 2011 – We the People Convention, Inc., today announced that John McManus, president of The John Birch Society, will take part in a panel discussion of the viability of the Federal Reserve at the Ohio statewide “We the People Convention” being held on July 1-2, 2011, at the Columbus Convention Center.

McManus said of the Federal Reserve, “It has presided over the loss of more than 95 percent of the value of U.S. currency. A huge percentage of the wealth of the people has been confiscated through the inflationary practices carried out by the Fed.” McManus will present this and other findings detailed in his book “Financial Terrorism,” during the panel discussion. The panel moderator will be Linda Bowyer, Associate Professor of Finance at University of Toledo. Other panel participants include Mike Sullivan, founder and president of Wealth Coach Financial Services, Inc. of Dublin, Ohio and Bob Wagner, a Columbus based portfolio manager who has taught finance at Ohio Wesleyan and Microeconomics at Ohio State University.

“We are excited to have John join the panel discussion on the Federal Reserve at the We the People Convention,” said Tom Zawistowski, convention president. “John brings a depth of knowledge about American government that spans more than 44 years and has educated millions of Americans about the appropriate role of government during his tenure with The John Birch Society.”

Convention attendees can also go to McManus’ other presentations during the morning breakout sessions. He will be speaking on the Council on Foreign Relations and its negative influence on American liberty, and also on neoconservatives that have pushed the conservative movement away from its limited government principles.

McManus joined The John Birch Society in August 1966. He has written and produced numerous audiovisual programs, including the DVD Overview of America, which is a tribute to America’s Constitutional roots. Additionally, McManus has authored several books including Financial Terrorism (1993), Changing Commands: The Betrayal of America’s Military (1995), William F. Buckley, Jr.: Pied Piper for the Establishment (2002), and The Insiders (2004).

The “We the People Convention” will consist of two days of educational breakout sessions, interspersed with major national figures including conservative strategist Dick Morris who will be speaking at luncheons. Its purpose is to educate and train citizens about the political process and to encourage involvement in that process at the grassroots level.

We the People Convention, Inc., is a state registered 501 (c) 4 non-profit educational organization based in Columbus, charged with assembling the convention, as well as engaging political activists throughout Ohio. For more information on We the People Convention, visit www.wethepeopleconvention.org or contact Tom Zawistowski at 1-800-846-4630, ext. 104 or at TomZ@wethepeopleconvention.org.

Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin, The John Birch Society is dedicated to restoring and preserving freedom under the U.S. Constitution. Members come from all walks of life and are active throughout the 50 states on local, regional and national issues. United by a strong belief in personal freedom and limited government, members have a strong sense of duty, and their educational efforts have played a continuous and pivotal role in exposing legislation and policies that threaten the independence of our country and the freedom of American citizens. Visit JBS.org for more information.

The John Birch Society President to Participate in “We the People Convention”John McManus to Take Part in Panel Discussion on Federal Reserve

APPLETON, WIS. – May 12, 2011 – We the People Convention, Inc., today announced that John McManus, president of The John Birch Society, will take part in a panel discussion of the viability of the Federal Reserve at the Ohio statewide “We the People Convention” being held on July 1-2, 2011, at the Columbus Convention Center.

McManus said of the Federal Reserve, “It has presided over the loss of more than 95 percent of the value of U.S. currency. A huge percentage of the wealth of the people has been confiscated through the inflationary practices carried out by the Fed.” McManus will present this and other findings detailed in his book “Financial Terrorism,” during the panel discussion. The panel moderator will be Linda Bowyer, Associate Professor of Finance at University of Toledo. Other panel participants include Mike Sullivan, founder and president of Wealth Coach Financial Services, Inc. of Dublin, Ohio and Bob Wagner, a Columbus based portfolio manager who has taught finance at Ohio Wesleyan and Microeconomics at Ohio State University.

“We are excited to have John join the panel discussion on the Federal Reserve at the We the People Convention,” said Tom Zawistowski, convention president. “John brings a depth of knowledge about American government that spans more than 44 years and has educated millions of Americans about the appropriate role of government during his tenure with The John Birch Society.”

Convention attendees can also go to McManus’ other presentations during the morning breakout sessions. He will be speaking on the Council on Foreign Relations and its negative influence on American liberty, and also on neoconservatives that have pushed the conservative movement away from its limited government principles.

McManus joined The John Birch Society in August 1966. He has written and produced numerous audiovisual programs, including the DVD Overview of America, which is a tribute to America’s Constitutional roots. Additionally, McManus has authored several books including Financial Terrorism (1993), Changing Commands: The Betrayal of America’s Military (1995), William F. Buckley, Jr.: Pied Piper for the Establishment (2002), and The Insiders (2004).

The “We the People Convention” will consist of two days of educational breakout sessions, interspersed with major national figures including conservative strategist Dick Morris who will be speaking at luncheons. Its purpose is to educate and train citizens about the political process and to encourage involvement in that process at the grassroots level.

We the People Convention, Inc., is a state registered 501 (c) 4 non-profit educational organization based in Columbus, charged with assembling the convention, as well as engaging political activists throughout Ohio. For more information on We the People Convention, visit www.wethepeopleconvention.org or contact Tom Zawistowski at 1-800-846-4630, ext. 104 or at TomZ@wethepeopleconvention.org.

Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin, The John Birch Society is dedicated to restoring and preserving freedom under the U.S. Constitution. Members come from all walks of life and are active throughout the 50 states on local, regional and national issues. United by a strong belief in personal freedom and limited government, members have a strong sense of duty, and their educational efforts have played a continuous and pivotal role in exposing legislation and policies that threaten the independence of our country and the freedom of American citizens. Visit JBS.org for more information.

Art Thompson to discuss state nullification as answer to federal abuses in SacramentoCEO of The John Birch Society to address members, supporters July 9, 1:30 PM

APPLETON, WIS.—May 16, 2011—Art Thompson, CEO of The John Birch Society, will address nullification as a constitutional tool for states to use in response to unconstitutional federal legislation. He will present “Winning the Fight for Your Rights” on July 9, 1:30 PM, at the Holiday Inn on Madison Avenue and I-80, Sacramento. Tickets are available from Jan Frelick (530-885-5321).

Thompson will explain the system of horizontal and vertical checks and balances and how citizens play a role. Many states are currently introducing and passing legislation designed to define the proper role of state and federal governments in order to protect individual rights. He is delivering this speech across the country while on the Nullify Now! Tour in conjunction with the Tenth Amendment Center.

Thompson has held virtually every volunteer and staff position in the Society, since joining in 1964. For several years, he represented the Society in a variety of media events, including appearing on "60 Minutes" and conducting tours for JBS Speakers Bureau.

Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin, The John Birch Society is dedicated to restoring and preserving freedom under the U.S. Constitution. Members come from all walks of life and are active throughout the 50 states on local, regional and national issues. United by a strong belief in personal freedom and limited government, members have a strong sense of duty, and their educational efforts have played a continuous and pivotal role in exposing legislation and policies that threaten the independence of our country and the freedom of American citizens. Visit JBS.org for more information.

Art Thompson to discuss state nullification as answer to federal abuses in SacramentoCEO of The John Birch Society to address members, supporters July 9, 1:30 PM

APPLETON, WIS.—May 16, 2011—Art Thompson, CEO of The John Birch Society, will address nullification as a constitutional tool for states to use in response to unconstitutional federal legislation. He will present “Winning the Fight for Your Rights” on July 9, 1:30 PM, at the Holiday Inn on Madison Avenue and I-80, Sacramento. Tickets are available from Jan Frelick (530-885-5321).

Thompson will explain the system of horizontal and vertical checks and balances and how citizens play a role. Many states are currently introducing and passing legislation designed to define the proper role of state and federal governments in order to protect individual rights. He is delivering this speech across the country while on the Nullify Now! Tour in conjunction with the Tenth Amendment Center.

Thompson has held virtually every volunteer and staff position in the Society, since joining in 1964. For several years, he represented the Society in a variety of media events, including appearing on "60 Minutes" and conducting tours for JBS Speakers Bureau.

Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin, The John Birch Society is dedicated to restoring and preserving freedom under the U.S. Constitution. Members come from all walks of life and are active throughout the 50 states on local, regional and national issues. United by a strong belief in personal freedom and limited government, members have a strong sense of duty, and their educational efforts have played a continuous and pivotal role in exposing legislation and policies that threaten the independence of our country and the freedom of American citizens. Visit JBS.org for more information.

The John Birch Society to attend CPAC 2011 as affiliateThe JBS announces it’s an affiliate of CPAC 2011, will have two booths with plenty of educational literature, once again interviewing attendees

APPLETON, WIS.—November 12, 2010—The John Birch Society has signed on as an affiliate for the 38th Annual Conservative Political Action Conference, otherwise known as CPAC 2011. This will be held February 10-12, 2011, at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington, DC. Last year’s appearance was the JBS’s first since the early 1990s.

“Last year’s appearance went so well that we are very happy to return,” said Bill Hahn, Public Relations Manager for JBS. “The attendees couldn’t have been nicer and it will be great to make further connections with those interested in learning more about Constitutional solutions for the problems affecting this nation.”

Over the last couple of years, JBS has seen a real thirst in the electorate for solutions to overbearing and unconstitutional government. JBS has responded with a number of activist and educational tools, many of which will be displayed and given out at the JBS CPAC booth # 310 and 312. Most prominently will be tools for choosing freedom and stopping ObamaCare, including information on nullification, repealing and defunding the unconstitutional new health care law.

The other half of the JBS booth will be used for on-camera interviews of conservative leaders and attendees by Liberty News Network. Last year, those interviewed included author Cory Emberson, National Right to Work’s President Mark Mix, American Petroleum Institute’s Chief Economist John Felmy, talk radio host Wayne Bradley, author James Bovard, syndicated columnist Star Parker, bestselling author and columnist Jerome Corsi, Eagle Forum’s Founder Phyllis Schlafly, American Policy Center’s President Tom DeWeese and former Congressman J.D. Hayworth. We also caught a lively, yet respectable discussion between MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow and JBS staff at the booth. JBS CPAC 2010 video interviews can be seen here.

Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin, The John Birch Society is dedicated to restoring and preserving freedom under the U.S. Constitution. Members come from all walks of life and are active throughout the 50 states on local, regional and national issues. United by a strong belief in personal freedom and limited government, members work to achieve the mission of the organization: to bring about less government, more responsibility, and — with God’s help — a better world by providing leadership, education, and organized volunteer action in accordance with moral and Constitutional principles. Visit JBS.org for more information.

Photos: Top photo: JBS Director of Marketing Larry Greenley (right) with a visitor during a busy stretch Middle photo: JBS Volunteer Leader Andy Dlinn (right) interacts with visitors signing up for introductory subscriptions to news magazine The New American. Bottom photo: JBS President John McManus scans the crowd from inside the JBS booth.

Choose Freedom — Stop ObamaCare Doctor Tour BeginsThe John Birch Society sends three doctors on a speaking tour to kickoff its campaign to repeal or nullify the new healthcare law, allowing patients, doctors to choose a course of care

APPLETON, WIS.—September 23, 2010—The John Birch Society’s “Choose Freedom — Stop ObamaCare!” speaking tour officially begins September 24 in Idaho with a presentation by Dr. Mark E. Baxter. The tour features three doctors who are passionate about affordable quality healthcare and constitutional, limited government that allows patients and their doctors to choose a course of care.

The tour begins in Idaho and runs through 13 states until the first part of November.

The "Choose Freedom — Stop ObamaCare!" tour is a nationwide speaking tour/media tour of three physicians and JBS President John McManus, sponsored by The John Birch Society. It is an important part of the Society’s comprehensive campaign that includes billboards, radio and newspaper ads, videos and DVDs, flyers, bumper stickers, ObamaCare repeal and nullification petitions, Internet social network sites, and YouTube, as well as print and online articles. The campaign aims to educate and enlist more Americans in the efforts to push Congress to repeal the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, while at the same time urging state legislatures to stop the federal takeover of medicine and healthcare through the constitutional process of nullification.

The three doctors are Baxter, MD; Frederick Pierce, MD; and J. Michael Ritze, DO, MFSA. Baxter is a former urgent care and emergency room physician and a Senior Airman Medical Examiner for the Federal Aviation Administration. He has long had an interest in the effect on medicine that would accompany government control of medical care.

Ritzehas a family practice in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma and has delivered over 2,000 babies. He has taught forensic science specifically to law enforcement agencies across Oklahoma for years. Since 2008, he has served in the Oklahoma House of Representatives.

Piercespent the better part of his medical career working in the occupational and environmental health fields. He served 27 years with General Motors and then at clinics in Michigan and Indiana before retiring.

McManus is the President of The John Birch Society, publisher of The New American magazine, publisher of the JBS Bulletinand author of several books. Before joining the Society’s staff in the 1960s, he served on active duty as a lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps.

JBS CEO Arthur R. Thompson will be a fifth speaker and fill in where needed. He has read the entire "Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act" and its reconciliation companion. Through JBS, he is helping lead the effort to overturn the new law and help return the choice of healthcare back to individuals.

Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin, The John Birch Society is dedicated to restoring and preserving freedom under the U.S. Constitution. Members come from all walks of life and are active throughout the 50 states on local, regional and national issues. United by a strong belief in personal freedom and limited government, members have a strong sense of duty, and their educational efforts have played a continuous and pivotal role in exposing legislation and policies that threaten the independence of our country and the freedom of American citizens. Visit JBS.org for more information.

Choose Freedom — Stop ObamaCare Doctor Tour BeginsThe John Birch Society sends three doctors on a speaking tour to kickoff its campaign to repeal or nullify the new healthcare law, allowing patients, doctors to choose a course of care

APPLETON, WIS.—September 23, 2010—The John Birch Society’s “Choose Freedom — Stop ObamaCare!” speaking tour officially begins September 24 in Idaho with a presentation by Dr. Mark E. Baxter. The tour features three doctors who are passionate about affordable quality healthcare and constitutional, limited government that allows patients and their doctors to choose a course of care.

The tour begins in Idaho and runs through 13 states until the first part of November.

The "Choose Freedom — Stop ObamaCare!" tour is a nationwide speaking tour/media tour of three physicians and JBS President John McManus, sponsored by The John Birch Society. It is an important part of the Society’s comprehensive campaign that includes billboards, radio and newspaper ads, videos and DVDs, flyers, bumper stickers, ObamaCare repeal and nullification petitions, Internet social network sites, and YouTube, as well as print and online articles. The campaign aims to educate and enlist more Americans in the efforts to push Congress to repeal the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, while at the same time urging state legislatures to stop the federal takeover of medicine and healthcare through the constitutional process of nullification.

The three doctors are Baxter, MD; Frederick Pierce, MD; and J. Michael Ritze, DO, MFSA. Baxter is a former urgent care and emergency room physician and a Senior Airman Medical Examiner for the Federal Aviation Administration. He has long had an interest in the effect on medicine that would accompany government control of medical care.

Ritzehas a family practice in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma and has delivered over 2,000 babies. He has taught forensic science specifically to law enforcement agencies across Oklahoma for years. Since 2008, he has served in the Oklahoma House of Representatives.

Piercespent the better part of his medical career working in the occupational and environmental health fields. He served 27 years with General Motors and then at clinics in Michigan and Indiana before retiring.

McManus is the President of The John Birch Society, publisher of The New American magazine, publisher of the JBS Bulletinand author of several books. Before joining the Society’s staff in the 1960s, he served on active duty as a lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps.

JBS CEO Arthur R. Thompson will be a fifth speaker and fill in where needed. He has read the entire "Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act" and its reconciliation companion. Through JBS, he is helping lead the effort to overturn the new law and help return the choice of healthcare back to individuals.

Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin, The John Birch Society is dedicated to restoring and preserving freedom under the U.S. Constitution. Members come from all walks of life and are active throughout the 50 states on local, regional and national issues. United by a strong belief in personal freedom and limited government, members have a strong sense of duty, and their educational efforts have played a continuous and pivotal role in exposing legislation and policies that threaten the independence of our country and the freedom of American citizens. Visit JBS.org for more information.

The phone number listed on the bottom of the letter is the number for The John Birch Society headquarters office in Appleton, WI: 920-749-3780. The letter closes with a twisted version of one of JBS’s tag lines: Standing for Family & Freedom.

Bill Hahn, Public Relations Manager for The John Birch Society, said, "We are making this available to alert the Oklahoma City media that the letter did not come from The John Birch Society. We do not know who sent it. We do not approve of the letter’s message and strongly denounce both the message and the individual or group involved in this disgusting and illegal activity. We have reported this to the Oklahoma City Police Department. We thank The Black Chronicle for immediately alerting us of the letter and faxing us a copy."

Mr. Russell Perry, President of The Black Chronicle, stated, "I received this irresponsible letter and had it forwarded over to The John Birch Society leadership right away for them to constructively respond to."

Mr. Clark Curry, Chapter Leader for the Oklahoma City local JBS, said of the letter, "This is not the first time that false correspondence has gone out purporting to be from The John Birch Society. The Society knows of several instances over its 52-year history when similar false letters have attempted to align JBS with racist methods or organizations."

Racism is not acceptable and is not tolerated at The John Birch Society.

If you have received one of these letters, please let us and the Oklahoma City Police Department (405-297-1000) know right away.

According to its website, The Black Chronicle newspaper is "a weekly periodical servicing the Oklahoma City metro area's African American population" and "has grown into one of the largest paid weekly newspapers in the state of Oklahoma."

Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin, The John Birch Society is dedicated to restoring and preserving freedom under the U.S. Constitution. Members come from all walks of life and are active throughout the 50 states on local, regional and national issues. United by a strong belief in personal freedom and limited government, members have a strong sense of duty, and their educational efforts have played a continuous and pivotal role in exposing legislation and policies that threaten the independence of our country and the freedom of American citizens. Visit JBS.org for more information.

The phone number listed on the bottom of the letter is the number for The John Birch Society headquarters office in Appleton, WI: 920-749-3780. The letter closes with a twisted version of one of JBS’s tag lines: Standing for Family & Freedom.

Bill Hahn, Public Relations Manager for The John Birch Society, said, "We are making this available to alert the Oklahoma City media that the letter did not come from The John Birch Society. We do not know who sent it. We do not approve of the letter’s message and strongly denounce both the message and the individual or group involved in this disgusting and illegal activity. We have reported this to the Oklahoma City Police Department. We thank The Black Chronicle for immediately alerting us of the letter and faxing us a copy."

Mr. Russell Perry, President of The Black Chronicle, stated, "I received this irresponsible letter and had it forwarded over to The John Birch Society leadership right away for them to constructively respond to."

Mr. Clark Curry, Chapter Leader for the Oklahoma City local JBS, said of the letter, "This is not the first time that false correspondence has gone out purporting to be from The John Birch Society. The Society knows of several instances over its 52-year history when similar false letters have attempted to align JBS with racist methods or organizations."

Racism is not acceptable and is not tolerated at The John Birch Society.

If you have received one of these letters, please let us and the Oklahoma City Police Department (405-297-1000) know right away.

According to its website, The Black Chronicle newspaper is "a weekly periodical servicing the Oklahoma City metro area's African American population" and "has grown into one of the largest paid weekly newspapers in the state of Oklahoma."

Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin, The John Birch Society is dedicated to restoring and preserving freedom under the U.S. Constitution. Members come from all walks of life and are active throughout the 50 states on local, regional and national issues. United by a strong belief in personal freedom and limited government, members have a strong sense of duty, and their educational efforts have played a continuous and pivotal role in exposing legislation and policies that threaten the independence of our country and the freedom of American citizens. Visit JBS.org for more information.